Rice Par-boiling Machine and Dryer are not Composite Machine Classified in Central Excise Heading 8419

[CBEC Circular No. 982 dated 15^th May 2014]

Subject - Classification of rice par-boiling machinery.

I am directed to draw your attention to Circular No. 924/14/2010-CX dated 19.05.2010 on the subject of classification of rice par-boiling machinery under the Central Excise tariff. References have been received from trade and field to re-examine the circular consequent to the judgement of the Hon’ble Tribunal in case of M/s Jyoti Sales Corporation [2011(272) E.L.T. 689 (Tri – Del) & 2011 - TIOL – 1498 – CESTAT-DEL]. The circular has since been re-examined.

2. The classification of rice par-boiling machinery would be guided by Note 2 to Chapter 84 read with Note 3 to Section XVI. The par-boiling machine and dryer are self-contained machines which are designed to be installed independently and which perform their respective functions independently. Therefore, though they may be installed in a rice mill to work in conjunction with the milling machinery, the par-boiling machine and dryer do not appear to satisfy the requirements of Section Note 3 to be called composite machines/multi-function machines meriting classification under CETH 8437. Further, par-boiling machinery does not constitute grain dampening machine as the end result of par-boiling of rice is reduction in the moisture of paddy. In view of the above, rice par-boiling machine and dryer would merit classification under CETH 8419 as per Note 2 to Chapter 84.

3. Circular No. 924/14/2010-CX dated 19.5.2010 is rescinded and it is directed that classification of rice par-boiling machine and dryer may be made under CETH 8419. Necessary action to protect the revenue interest in respect of past clearances may also be taken.

F. No. 167/42/2009-CX.1